The Gardner News

3 days ago | thegardnernews.com | John Conceison

For the third time, Colin Bennie ran the Boston Marathon as a professional runner. And for the third time, the former Wachusett Regional High standout finished in the top 20. After passing the halfway point in 1 hour, 4 minutes, 57 seconds, Bennie crossed the finish line at the Boston Public Library in 2:11:46, good for 18th on April 21. He finished sixth among U.S. runners. John Korir of Kenya pulled away from the pack in the 20th mile and breezed to victory in 2:04:45, winning by 19 seconds.

3 days ago | thegardnernews.com | Caitlyn Kelleher |Katie Landeck

Pope Francis, remembered for his inclusivity and focus on the poor, died at 88 after battling respiratory illness. The first pope from the Americas, he was elected in 2013 and championed compassion and action over words. Massachusetts leaders, including Archbishop Richard Henning and Congressman Jim McGovern, offered condolences and praised his legacy. Carl Sawejko, a Swansea resident, recalled the Pope's advocacy for gay rights and his emphasis on not condemning people.

6 days ago | thegardnernews.com | Jesse Collings

The executive director of the Southern Worcester County Education Collaborative said closing the program was the only possible decision because of finances. Parents and staff are worried about finding other local options to cater to the students' complex needs. The program will officially close in August. OXFORD ― The end of a special education program that taught some of the most high-needs students in the region has left parents feeling frustrated and concerned for their children.

6 days ago | thegardnernews.com | Rich Garven

Rich GarvenWorcester Telegram & GazetteASHBURNHAM — When it comes to baseball, one can’t go wrong with drawing a pair of aces. That again proved true as the few frigid fans in attendance were treated to a terrific pitchers’ duel between Oakmont Regional senior Levi Hessel and Clinton junior Brian Silvester with the Spartans prevailing, 1-0, April 16 at wind-swept Driscoll Park. “Both guys did a great job; both guys pounded the zone,” Oakmont coach Tim Caouette said.

6 days ago | thegardnernews.com | Mike Elfland

Mike ElflandWorcester Telegram & GazetteLatest in a series. Magnolia Trail, its packed surface traversed by nature walkers for many years, cuts through the onetime farm of Obadiah Hadwen. The route passes a stone foundation, all that's left of a farmhouse. Hadwen would appreciate the foot traffic. He, too, enjoyed the woods of Worcester. The trail is a main draw of Hadwen Arboretum, a 26-acre, tree-filled parcel at Lovell and May streets, bounded by houses. It was once part of Hadwen's Magnolia Farm.